Night Curfew Imposed in Baidoa amid Security Crackdown

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: The federal government of Somalia has imposed a nighttime curfew in Baidoa, banning the public carrying of weapons after dark as authorities move to tighten security following recent political tensions in South West State.

Police chief Major General Asad Osman Abdullahi ordered an immediate reinforcement of security measures during meetings with commanders in the town, including increased night patrols and stricter checks on vehicles and people entering Baidoa.

Under the directive, only authorized forces such as the Somali Police Force and the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) will be allowed to carry weapons at night.

Police have been tasked with maintaining internal security in the town, while the Somali National Armed Forces will operate on the outskirts to reinforce defences.

The federal government has also ordered armed groups undergoing integration into national forces to remain in their camps and refrain from bringing weapons into the town during the process.

The measures come after federal authorities assumed direct control of Baidoa following recent political changes in South West State, and as Somalia prepares for a transition toward one-person, one-vote elections.